Who appoints the Council of ministers at the State level ? Discuss their functions.(3 marks)

The Council of Ministers at the state level is appointed by the Governor of the state. The process is as follows:

1. After the state legislative assembly elections, the party or coalition that has the majority of seats forms the government. The leader of this majority party or coalition is chosen as the Chief Minister.
2. The Chief Minister then advises the Governor on the appointment of other members of the Council of Ministers. While the Governor is bound by the advice of the Chief Minister in this regard, he/she formally appoints the Council of Ministers.

The functions of the Council of Ministers at the state level include:

1. Formulating Policies: The Council of Ministers is responsible for formulating and implementing the policies of the government in the state. They propose bills and budgets in the state legislature.

2. Administrative Functions: The Council of Ministers oversees the administration of their respective departments and the implementation of the policies in the state.

3. Advisory Role: The Council of Ministers advises the Governor on various issues concerning the administration of the state's affairs.

4. Legislative Functions: The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the state legislative assembly. They need to ensure that they have the confidence of the majority of the members of the assembly.

5. Public Welfare: The Council of Ministers is responsible for the overall welfare and development of the state and its people. They initiate various welfare schemes and development projects in the state.